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Kings utility back Sibusiso Sithole is available for selection for Friday’s match against the Cheetahs, while Masixole Banda and Tertius Kruger have recovered from their injuries.

Sithole has been a long-term injury concern, as he has been struggling with a knee issue, while the duo of Banda and Kruger returned from the team’s 38-0 loss to Edinburgh doubtful for Friday’s derby with leg and hand injuries respectively.

However, after they underwent scans last week, team doctor Gershwin Kortje confirmed that all three players should be fit to start against the Cheetahs.

‘Following assessments and scans last week, I am pleased to confirm that Masixole Banda and Tertius Kruger are fit to play, as they have recovered from the knocks they sustained against Edinburgh,’ Kortje said.

‘Sibusiso Sithole is back at full training and has made a full recovery from his knee injury. He has been training with the team and is fit for selection.

‘We also have Andisa Ntsila, Rossouw de Klerk and Oliver Zono, who have completed their rehab and are now busy with their conditioning work.’

The only other concerns for this week are loose forwards Tienie Burger and Ruaan Lerm. A call will be made on Burger later in the week, while Lerm is expected to be ready to play.